CO
Cali
Colombia’s salsa capital, a warm, lively city at the foot of the western Andes
Colombia’s salsa capital, a warm, lively city at the foot of the western Andes
⚠️ Travel advisory: check before you go
Governments advise against travel to some regions of Colombia, mainly border and rural areas affected by armed groups, and the US asks travellers to reconsider travel. The main cities and tourist areas are widely visited; check the latest regional advice.
Latest official advice: UK FCDO · US State Department · Reviewed September 2026
Cali’s most charming neighbourhood, with colonial houses, cafés and a hilltop chapel and park with views over the city, popular at sunset.
Photo: Mateo Sánchez Cárdenas, CC BY-SA 3.0
A large statue of Christ on a hill west of the city, with panoramic views over Cali and the valley.
Go by taxi or tour rather than walking up.
Photo: ProtoplasmaKid, CC BY-SA 4.0
Salsa is everywhere in Cali: take a class at one of the many schools, watch a show such as Delirio, or join locals at clubs in Juanchito and the city centre.
Photo: Wikioutlaw, CC BY-SA 4.0
Along the Cali River, the Gato del Río bronze cat sculpture is surrounded by colourful cat statues painted by different artists.
Photo: Berner Jesus, CC BY-SA 4.0
Try sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), empanadas vallunas, pandebono, champús (a corn and fruit drink) and lulada.
San Antonio and Granada have the best range of restaurants.
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO) is in Palmira, about 30 to 40 minutes from the city. The MIO bus system covers the main routes; ride-hailing apps are convenient.
Citizens of the EU, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and many other countries can visit Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days. All foreign visitors must complete the free online Check-MIG migration form before arriving. Check current rules before you travel.
Cali is inexpensive. Colombia uses the peso (COP). Cards are accepted in cities, but carry cash for taxis, markets and small towns; use ATMs inside banks or malls.
Prices rise during the Feria de Cali (25–30 December).
Salsa and city views.
Explore San Antonio and its viewpoint, walk the river sculptures, and take a salsa class.
Go up to Cristo Rey, then see a salsa show or go dancing in the evening.
Government travel advice warns against travel in rural Valle del Cauca and Cauca outside Cali; check current advice before leaving the city.
Do not show phones carelessly on the street, never leave drinks unattended, and be careful meeting people from dating apps; drugging and robbery are known risks.
Use ride-hailing apps or taxis ordered by phone or through your hotel rather than hailing them on the street.
Even beginners are welcome; a few lessons make club nights much more fun.
Quick answers for planning time in Cali.
Citizens of the EU, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and many others can stay up to 90 days visa-free, but must complete the online Check-MIG form before arrival.
Salsa is central to local culture, with many dance schools, clubs and the World Salsa Festival.
The main tourist areas can be visited with care, but rural areas around the city carry government travel warnings; check current advice.
Every year from 25 to 30 December.
By taxi or airport bus, taking about 30 to 40 minutes.
Google Maps and Moovit work well in cities; download offline maps for treks.
Free
Spanish is the language; English is limited outside tourist businesses.
Free
WhatsApp is used for almost everything in Colombia, from hotels to tour bookings.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Colombia travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.